Hattiesburg physician named District Health Officer for East Central and Southeast Public Health Districts

Christy Sones Thornton, MD, has been named the District Health Officer for the Mississippi State Department of Health's (MSDH) East Central Public Health District VI and Southeast Public Health District VIII.

A native of Jackson, Dr. Thornton has been with the MSDH since December serving as Deputy District Health Officer in both districts. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree with highest honors from the University of Southern Mississippi and her medical doctorate from the University of South Alabama.

Upon completion of her residency in internal medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, she began practicing internal medicine at Methodist Healthcare, Internal Medicine Associates in Jackson, followed by four years in adolescent and adult medical practice and women's health with the University of Southern Mississippi Student Health Services, and then with the Southeast Mississippi Rural Healthcare Centers in Hattiesburg and Brooklyn.

“As a physician, I have been privileged to practice in settings where I can make a real difference in the lives of my patients,” said Dr. Thornton. “I am fortunate to be able to continue this effort with the Mississippi State Department of Health and in our local communities.”

Dr. Thornton has also been active in numerous professional and civic organizations such as the Mississippi State Medical Association, the University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Foundation Board of Directors, and the Greater Pinebelt Community Foundation Board of Directors.

“Dr. Thornton is an internal medicine physician with extensive experience in women's health, student health, primary care, HIV care and the treatment of sexually transmitted infections,” said MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Thomas Dobbs. “We are excited to put her skills and experience to work for Mississippi's public health.”

Jones County Junior College makes its second straight appearance in the NJCAA National Tournament in Lubbock, Texas. The four-seeded Lady Bobcats (26-3) face the winner of Northeast Oklahoma A&M and Trinity Valley on Wednesday at 1 p.m.

Jones County Junior College makes its second straight appearance in the NJCAA National Tournament in Lubbock, Texas. The four-seeded Lady Bobcats (26-3) face the winner of Northeast Oklahoma A&M and Trinity Valley on Wednesday at 1 p.m.